INSULAR Technlogies

What is the INSULAR Technologies?

The goal of the Insular Technologies Consortium project is to establish a low-cost, independent, global High Frequency (HF) radio communication network, that can carry data and voice traffic in adition and alongside the traditional telecommunication carriers. It is designed to promote and protect the communication flow between independent cultural, media and social initiatives, non-governmental organisations and individuals. The project is initiated by a consortium of independent media-organizations and individuals. The members of the consortium feel that there is a genuine need to establish a network outside the existing physical infrastructures - a network that makes use of the radio spectrum rather than physical cable. top

Why use this over existing infrastructure?

The IT Consortium wants to lower the accessibility barriers faced by many civil society groups which experience difficulties in linking up with each other and the global networks. The reasons for that vary from, eg, limited budget, unavailability of reliable access provider or physical remoteness. The system can connect remote areas or serve as back-up and emergency network in others. This radio-based network will be independent, and the Consortium members will ensure that it will be used only for cultural and civil applications. Supporting ITC means furthering the cause of public bandwidth. top

Why a HF based system?

The project consists of a worldwide High Frequency radio point-to-point analog/digital network with gateways to the Internet. Experience has showed that HFcommunication is ideal for the long haul and in the non average circumstances in which many organisations and individuals operate. top

Will I lose data over long-distance?

No - if the protocol is working properly - error checking should ensure that the integrity of the data is maintained - independent of distance. top

What kind of hardware is needed to establish one IT station?

You need a HF radio transceiver; HF radio data modem; antenna tuner; antenna system; PC running Linux. Check out the specifications for the pilot-prototype system on our website. top

What are its applications?

In its initial implementation only low bandwidth communications will be available. Therefore - the system will provide text and voice communications. Specific applications include email, news, and bulletin board services. Also alternative information services - such as independent news channels - can be developed and made available on the network. In a later stage more applications will become available. top

What is the estimated budget needed to establish one IT station?

Not yet specified, because of different licensing costs, but a minimal technical setup should be from 4000-5000 USD or EURO. top

Is it legal? Do I need a license?

It depends. The legal situation varies from country to country. Most nations-states control the use of the radio spectrum. They do this by issuing licenses for equipment, frequency and use. Different areas of the spectrum are designated for different kinds of use e.g. commercial telecommunications, broadcasting, amateur radio, military and government communication. See further the license document ...... top

At what stage is the project and how can I get it?

For the moment, the project is in the pilot phase. By now the specifications of the system have been worked out and it should go through testing. We will announce when it will become generally available on this website and through other available channels.top

Who is involved in the INSULAR Technologies Consortium?

ITC is an international body consisting on the one hand of the pool of users of the system and on the other hand the group of technical professionals that construct, maintain and operate the technology. top

What are the tasks of the Insular Technologies Consortium?

ITC will represent and promote the network internationally, coordinate and find finance for the establishment of of the initial HF-backbone, work within the framework of the ITU regulations and give technical and legal advice and assistance to the local users. top

How can I be part of the INSULAR network?

A lot of information is available on this website. This should help you further for the momen, but feel free to contact the current system coordinators. . Your feedback is very welcome should you need to know more. top